Facial implants, using various implant materials and techniques, are used to enhance facial features deemed attractive to certain societies. A strong chin, high pronounced cheekbones, and a sharp, angled jaw are some of the more common features that implants may help enhance or replicate.

A chin implant or chin augmentation is a surgical procedure done to improve the facial profile. When looking at a face on profile, the relationship between the chin and nose is of critical importance. One can think of the nose and chin as on opposite ends of a seesaw, balanced on the lower lip. The relative prominence of the nose can cause a relative “weak” appearance of the chin and vice-versa. In the case of a small chin, implantation may be recommended in patients considering rhinoplasty, especially in those with an over-projected nose.

A strong chin has long been deemed attractive, particularly in male patients–in fact, a relatively strong chin has been shown to increase the likelihood of promotion in the military! Chin implantation may also help the “double chin” appearance, especially with patients undergoing a neck lift and/or liposuction of the neck.

The procedure is performed through a small (usually less than 1″) incision hidden beneath the chin and utilizes a custom-carved silicone implant that is securely anchored beneath the periosteum, a fibrous layer covering the bone, of the mandible. Some mild numbness may be temporarily experienced after surgery but it is generally very well-tolerated.

The major benefit of having chin implant surgery is to add more harmony to your facial features. A chin that is out of proportion with a person’s cheeks and nose could experience an imbalanced profile. A chin implant redefines the chin and jaw making it look stronger and more defined, adding harmony to one’s profile.

You may be an ideal candidate for chin implant surgery if you have a weak, slight, or receding chin that will allow for some augmentation. Fortunately, chin implants vary in size and shape, so there are no specific requirements to be met, such as having a specific amount of volume or projection, to be eligible for this surgery.

During your consultation, Dr. Pero will conduct a thorough examination and go over your medical history. At this time, it is important to discuss your aesthetic goals with Dr. Pero, informing him of how much augmentation you would like. Dr. Pero can show you the implants, before and after pictures, and computer imaging of anticipated results to give you an idea of what to expect after surgery.

Be sure to ask all your questions during this time so you can make an informed decision about surgery.

Dr. Pero requests that his patients obtain pre-operative labs several weeks before surgery. Other requirements may include

• Patients older than 45 years of age with medical conditions will need to obtain medical clearance prior to surgery.
• Patients will need to stop taking any anticoagulation medications, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory products (e.g., naproxen, ibuprofen), vitamin A, ginkgo biloba, and St. John’s Wort, at least 10 days before surgery, as they can interfere with blood clotting and cause bruising.
• Patients should not drink alcohol at least 2 days before surgery to decrease swelling and bruising.
• Patients should take Arnica montana, an herbal supplement, prior to surgery to minimize swelling and bruising. This is available over-the-counter or through his office.
• Patients who smoke should refrain from smoking for approximately 2 weeks before the surgery, as nicotine causes the small blood vessels to become narrower, which decreases the blood flow to the skin.

Also, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.

Dressings may be removed within 2-3 days after surgery. Stitches are usually removed within 7 days after the procedure.

Note that it is normal to have some swelling and minimal bruising of the surgical site.

Before you are discharged home, you will be given aftercare instructions from Dr. Pero, which may include:

• Following a bland diet within the first 12 hours after anesthesia
• Taking Tylenol and over-the-counter pain medications to relieve any pain and discomfort
• Elevating the head using two pillows to help reduce swelling of the face and neck
• Following care instructions for the surgical site
• Reporting on any changes to your general health
• Scheduling a follow-up appointment with your facial plastic surgeon

Click here to view some of our patients’ “before and after” photos.

There are several surgeons nationwide that advocate facial implantation beyond chin implantation, including cheek implants and angle of the jaw implants (among others). Generally speaking, because other implants are harder to fixate securely (unlike chin implants) there is a significant risk of movement or migration of the implant over time leading to asymmetry of the face. For this reason, Dr. Pero is generally not an advocate of facial implantation other than chin implantation.